“Kat Lee Rivers’s new single “American Heartbreak” (Acoustic Version) arrives like a quiet prayer at a time when so much of the cultural conversation is loud and combative.
With nothing more than her renewed, soul bearing voice and Bob Lanzetti’s understated
guitar work, Rivers turns a lament into an act of hope.” [read more]
- Indie Music Discovery
“I know a good song when I hear one. And you got one.”
- Corte Ellis,songwriter/producer (Beyonce, Britney Spears, Missy Elliot)
In a time of deep national division, Kat Lee Rivers delivers "American Heartbreak," a powerful and hopeful anthem that seeks to find common ground. The new single channels a collective sense of frustration and sadness, transforming it into a unifying call for a better future. It’s a song that steps away from the noise of "left vs. right" to focus on "wrong vs. right," championing the shared American values of freedom, family, and the ability to dream. With a sound rooted in modern Americana, "American Heartbreak" positions Rivers alongside thoughtful, soul-stirring contemporaries like Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and Allison Russell.
The single serves as a compelling introduction to Rivers' latest artistic evolution and her forthcoming album, developed in collaboration with Grammy-winning guitarist and producer Bob Lanzetti (Snarky Puppy). An artist whose journey began in the world of jazz—earning accolades as a finalist in the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Competition and receiving multiple DownBeat awards—Rivers now weaves her sophisticated musical sensibilities into the raw, honest traditions of folk. Together, she and Lanzetti are crafting a timeless, 'old soul' sound that emphasizes Kat’s nuanced vocal storytelling against the backdrop of intricate melodies and Lanzetti’s distinctive guitar work.
Upcoming Events & Performances
The Chapel Restoration - Restoration Roadhouse Series
with Bob Lanzetti & Matt Aronoff
Saturday, October 18, 2025
Cold Spring, NY
About Kat
About Kat
Kat Lee Rivers' musical journey is a rich tapestry woven from diverse threads. From her formative years steeped in jazz, earning accolades like a 2014 finalist spot in the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Competition and multiple DownBeat awards, to her exploration of Americana and the vibrant rhythms of Brazil, her sound is a testament to her adventurous spirit. Her debut album, Anything but Ordinary, marked a departure from her pure jazz roots, showcasing her original songwriting and a captivating blend of Americana, Brazilian warmth, and sophisticated jazz undertones. Her newest release, American Heartbreak (acoustic version) is a taste of her upcoming 2026 album, produced by Bob Lanzetti.
Following a period of vocal recovery, Rivers' voice has returned stronger than ever, imbued with a renewed sense of depth and vulnerability. Her upcoming projects promise to delve deeper into her signature blend of genres, weaving stories of love, loss, and the human experience with a voice that resonates with authenticity.
Drawing from her experiences living and performing in Spain, Texas, Los Angeles, and New York City, Rivers' music is a reflection of her global perspective. She continues to honor her love of Brazilian music, singing in Portuguese and performing at intimate house concerts and esteemed, (now-closed) venues like the Cornelia Street Cafe and Rockwood Music Hall. She continues to grace stages, including The Chapel Restoration in Cold Spring, where she's set to return Fall 2025. Notably, she also had the honor of performing with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, backing up Ben Folds, a testament to her versatility and vocal prowess. Her collaboration with drummer and producer Ross Pederson on Anything but Ordinary brought together a stellar lineup of musicians, including Matt Aronoff, Perry Smith, Vitor Gonçalves, and Bob Lanzetti (who is now producing and playing on her new album, set to release Spring 2026), resulting in a beautifully crafted album. Her time touring Europe as a vocalist with Árid, a trio from Barcelona, Spain, included an unforgettable performance on the rooftop of La Pedrera, further solidifying her ability to bridge musical worlds, blending Americana, folk, and jazz with effortless grace.
Your invitation to pause in a fast-moving world, with reflections on creativity, nature, and the stories behind my music.
As a special thank you for joining, you'll receive a private link to my
latest 'Secret Garden' video, a comforting cover of Patty Griffin's 'Little Fire.'
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